NEW YORK, NY – [Photo by GANP/ Dimitrios Panagos]
As the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America prepares for the 2026 Archbishop Elpidophoros Nameday Gala, in a week, this year’s gathering will carry special significance as it honors the life, ministry, and enduring legacy of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios. The event will be held on Monday, November 2, at Pier 60 in Manhattan, bringing together dignitaries, clergy, faithful, and supporters from across the Archdiocese.
Dedicated by Archbishop Elpidophoros to his predecessor, Archbishop Demetrios, the seventh Archbishop in the century-long history of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, the evening will celebrate his decades of service to the Orthodox Church, his pastoral leadership, scholarly contributions, and his enduring impact on generations of faithful in America and throughout the world.
“Archbishop Demetrios has given his entire life to the service of Christ and His Church. His nearly twenty years as Archbishop of America represent only one chapter in a remarkable ministry that has touched the lives of countless people, in Greece, here in America, and throughout the world”, said Archbishop Elpidophoros, reflecting on the decision to dedicate this year’s Nameday Gala to his predecessor. “His service as Archbishop, his scholarship and teaching, his pastoral care, and his witness on behalf of the Church have left an enduring mark on our Archdiocese”, he added.
“I believe it is important for our entire Archdiocese to come together to honor him, to express our gratitude for his service, and to celebrate the legacy of faith, wisdom, and love that he has given to our Church. I am honored that this year’s Nameday celebration will provide an opportunity for all of us to express our love and gratitude to His Eminence”, Archbishop Elpidophoros concluded.
Beyond honoring Archbishop Demetrios, the gala will continue its longstanding charitable mission. Proceeds from the evening will support the Archdiocesan Youth Summer Camp Scholarship Fund, which helps ensure that children throughout the Archdiocese can participate in Orthodox summer camp programs regardless of financial circumstances.
The scholarship initiative has expanded steadily in recent years, reflecting both growing need and the commitment of the faithful to invest in the spiritual formation of young people.
Speaking of the Archdiocese’s Youth Summer Camps, the tribute carries special meaning for Camp Saint Paul, the Direct Archdiocesan Youth Camp which traces its origin to Archbishop Demetrios’ vision. According to the camp’s official website, in 2004 His Eminence recognized the need for a camping program dedicated exclusively to the youth of the Direct Archdiocesan District, providing them with an opportunity to grow in their Orthodox faith and fellowship. He entrusted the initiative to then DAD Youth Director and Ionian Village Director Fr. Constantine Lazarakis, whose extensive experience in youth and camping ministry helped shape the program. Later that year, Camp Saint Paul was officially established and named in honor of the Apostle Paul, with Archbishop Demetrios appointing Fr. Elias Villis of Rye, New York, as its first director.
